Evidence of humans marking their bodies with permanent designs have existed for thousands of years. Egyptian and ice mummies reveal several forms of religious and status symbols.
The word “tattoo” is derived from the Polynesian language for tatau, which means “to tap or to mark.”
Around the world, cultures surrounding tattooing vary, and some have changed very little over time. In the United States, sailors brought tattooing to coastal shores from their island exploits.
Getting inked continues to grow as technology and acceptance increases.
While age, gender, religion, and class once divide the tattooed from the non-tattooed, those barriers are less common than they used to be.
The reasons why we go under the needle differ, too. A tattoo may represent a significant event or hold intensely personal meaning.
However, some people do get tattoos on a whim. Still, others confess, the need for a new tattoo is an addiction.
As the art form increases in popularity, considering a few things before getting a tattoo is essential:
Getting a Tattoo
• Research and find a reputable artist. Remember, this art is permanent. You will want a polished finished piece with no regrets – that is, no regrets.
• Once you’ve found an artist, be sure you have a design in mind. If you aren’t an artist, pulling an idea from your head and making it a reality will take time to develop.
• Check spelling. Fact check. If you use a foreign word or a quote in your design, research the meaning and check the spelling.
The same applies to symbols. Just because a website translated a meaning or said symbol represented peace or love in a specific culture, doesn’t mean it’s true.
And it’s not the artist’s responsibility to know either. Sometimes the design means something altogether different to the client.
• Be prepared to be placed on a waiting list. Good artists are in demand.
• You will pay more for good art. Nobody wants a lousy tattoo.
Day of Your Appointment
• Clear your day, especially if you’re getting a large tattoo.
• Arrive on time. Most artists charge by the hour, and any adjustment throws their entire day off. You can’t rush good art.
• Dress comfortably. You will be sitting or lying in a fixed position for long periods of time.
• Eat something. A protein bar won’t make you fill stuffed but will keep you alert and satisfied through the session.
• Bring water and stay hydrated.
• Tip your artists when the session is over.
FUN FACT:
Tom Leppard, born as Tom Wooldridge, also known as Leopard Man or the Leopard Man of Skye, (October 14, 1935 - June 12, 2016) was an English-born soldier previously considered by Guinness World Records™ to be the world's most tattooed man and later recognized as the most tattooed senior citizen.
HOW TO OBSERVE
Take some time to thank your tattoo artist. Do you have a new design? July 17 is the day to share your design.
Use #NationalTattooDay to share on social media.
HISTORY
Since 2016, National Tattoo Day has been observed. However, National Day Calendar® continues researching the origins of the day.
#NationalTattooDay
@GuinnessWorldRecords
@Smtattoo808
@nichecinema
